Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the all-new 2028 GLA, introducing a completely redesigned compact luxury SUV that embraces electrification while remaining available with both all-electric and advanced hybrid powertrains. Arriving in dealerships during the second half of 2027, the new GLA represents a significant step in Mercedes-Benz’s next-generation product strategy, combining a fresh design, longer driving range, ultra-fast charging, cutting-edge software and a more spacious interior.
The new model also marks a shift in Mercedes-Benz’s EV strategy. Rather than treating electric vehicles as a separate lineup, the redesigned GLA becomes part of a unified family of next-generation vehicles built on the company’s advanced software-defined MMA platform.
Two Electric Models Lead the Lineup
For North America, Mercedes-Benz has confirmed two battery-electric versions of the new GLA:
GLA 250+ Electric
– Single electric motor
– 268 horsepower
– Rear-wheel drive
– 85 kWh usable NMC battery
GLA 350 4MATIC Electric
– Dual-motor all-wheel drive
– 349 horsepower
– 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds
– 85 kWh usable NMC battery
Both models feature Mercedes-Benz’s new 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling some of the fastest charging speeds available in the compact luxury SUV segment.
Under the WLTP testing cycle, the larger battery delivers up to 408 miles (657 km) of driving range. Although official EPA figures have not yet been announced, Mercedes-Benz expects the U.S. version to comfortably exceed 350 miles on a full charge.
320 kW Charging Brings Long-Distance Capability
One of the biggest highlights of the new GLA is its charging performance.
The GLA 250+ Electric and GLA 350 4MATIC Electric support DC fast charging at up to 320 kW, allowing the battery to recharge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 22 minutes under ideal conditions.
Mercedes-Benz also says drivers can recover up to 168 miles (270 km WLTP) of driving range in only ten minutes at compatible high-power charging stations.
For home charging, the SUV includes 11 kW AC charging as standard, while a 22 kW onboard charger will be available in selected markets as an option.
Europe Gets an Entry-Level Battery Option
European buyers will also be able to choose the new GLA 200, which uses a 58 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery.
This version offers:
– Up to 278 miles (447 km WLTP) of range
– DC charging up to 200 kW
– Lower purchase price
– Improved battery durability and reduced use of critical materials
Mercedes-Benz also plans to introduce a fourth variant featuring a 71 kWh battery in early 2027, filling the gap between the two existing battery sizes.
High-Tech Hybrid Remains Available
Customers who are not yet ready to switch to a fully electric vehicle will still have the option of an advanced mild-hybrid drivetrain.
The new hybrid combines a newly developed turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a compact electric motor integrated directly into the new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The 48-volt system allows:
– Electric-only driving during low-speed city operation
– Electric coasting at highway speeds
– Up to 25 kW of regenerative braking
– Additional 30 horsepower of electric assistance
The result is improved efficiency without sacrificing everyday usability.
Larger Dimensions Create More Interior Space
Although the new GLA maintains its compact footprint, Mercedes-Benz has stretched the wheelbase by more than two inches, increasing cabin space throughout.
Rear passengers benefit from noticeably improved legroom and headroom, while cargo capacity has also increased.
The electric GLA offers 410 litres of rear cargo space, up to 1,400 litres with folded rear seats and a 107-litre front trunk for charging cables and smaller luggage.
A standard panoramic glass roof further enhances the feeling of openness inside the cabin.
Digital Cabin Powered by Artificial Intelligence
The redesigned interior introduces Mercedes-Benz’s latest digital experience.
An optional MBUX Superscreen spans nearly the entire dashboard, combining:
– 10.25-inch digital driver display
– 14-inch central touchscreen
– 14-inch passenger display
At the heart of the system is the newest MBUX Virtual Assistant, powered by generative AI.
Rather than relying on a single language model, the assistant integrates technologies from ChatGPT, Google and Microsoft, enabling more natural conversations while remembering previous requests during a journey.
Google Maps navigation is also enhanced through Google Cloud’s Automotive AI technology, helping drivers locate charging stations based on charging speed, parking availability and destination planning.
Advanced Driver Assistance Comes Standard
Mercedes-Benz equips the new GLA with an impressive suite of sensors, including eight cameras, five radar sensors, twelve ultrasonic sensors, and high-performance computing platform capable of 254 TOPS.
These systems power the latest generation of Distance Assist DISTRONIC and support future over-the-air software upgrades.
Depending on market availability and equipment, additional functions include autonomous lane changes, traffic light recognition and enhanced parking assistance.
Rugged Features Meet Premium Design
The exterior introduces a cleaner, more athletic appearance while maintaining familiar SUV proportions.
Key styling highlights include:
– Illuminated Mercedes-Benz grille on electric models
– Continuous rear light bar
– Flush-mounted wheels
– Wider rear stance
– Improved aerodynamic profile with a drag coefficient of only 0.27
Drivers choosing 4MATIC models can also benefit from a dedicated TERRAIN driving mode and Mercedes-Benz’s “Transparent Hood” technology, which uses exterior cameras to display a virtual view beneath the vehicle during off-road manoeuvres.
Sustainability Improves Across the Entire Vehicle
Mercedes-Benz says the all-electric GLA reduces its overall carbon footprint by around 40 percent compared with the previous combustion-powered model.
The company attributes these savings to:
– Lower-emission battery production
– Greater use of renewable-energy aluminium
– Four times more recycled materials than before
– Carpets manufactured from recycled Econyl yarn
These improvements form part of Mercedes-Benz’s wider sustainability strategy across its future EV lineup.
Pricing and Availability
The electric GLA will launch first in Europe, where prices begin at €48,599 for the entry-level GLA 200.
In the United States, Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that the 2028 GLA will arrive during the second half of 2027 with both all-electric and hybrid powertrains. U.S. pricing will be announced closer to launch.
Final Thoughts
The 2028 Mercedes-Benz GLA represents one of the most significant updates ever made to the brand’s compact SUV. With competitive driving range, 800-volt fast charging, an AI-powered digital cockpit and substantially improved practicality, the new GLA is positioned to become a serious contender in the premium electric SUV segment.
If its EPA driving range approaches the WLTP figures and Mercedes-Benz maintains competitive pricing, the new GLA could emerge as one of the strongest alternatives to rivals from Tesla, BMW and other luxury EV manufacturers.
